French and Quinebaug Rivers Watershed Smart Monitoring Program 2011-2013 Technical Memorandum Cn 415.0

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FRENCH AND QUINEBAUG RIVERS WATERSHED SMART MONITORING PROGRAM 2011-2013 TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM CN 415.0

Prepared By: Therese Beaudoin January 2016

Commonwealth of Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs Matthew Beaton, Secretary Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection Martin Suuberg, Commissioner Bureau of Water Resources Douglas Fine, Assistant Commissioner Division of Watershed Management Rebecca Weidman, Director Watershed Planning Program Kim Groff, Director

TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS ...... 2 LIST OF TABLES ...... 2 LIST OF FIGURES ...... 3 LIST OF LATIN NAMES...... 3 LIST OF ACRONYMS ...... 4 INTRODUCTION ...... 5 Overview of Monitoring Plan ...... 5 Hydrology ...... 5 Quality Assurance/Quality Control ...... 7 PROJECT OBJECTIVES ...... 8 METHODS ...... 8 STATION OBSERVATIONS ...... 10 Station QR00 – Quinebaug River at Holland Road, Sturbridge, MA (river mile 15.202) ...... 10 Station CA12 – Cady Brook at Southbridge Road (State Road/SR-169), Charlton, MA (river mile 3.268) ...... 12 Station QR06 – Quinebaug River at Old Turnpike Road (SR-197), Thompson, CT (river mile -0.373) ...... 14 Station FR11 – French River near Oxford Ave, Webster, MA (river mile 2.106) ...... 16 Station FR12 – French River below Perryville Road, Webster, MA (river mile 0.020) ...... 18 SURVEY CONDITIONS ...... 25 RESULTS AND QUALITY ASSURANCE/QUALITY CONTROL ...... 30 REFERENCES ...... 44

LIST OF TABLES

Table 1 French/Quinebaug Basin SMART Sampling Summary – 2011 through 2013 ...... 5 Table 2 MassDEP SMART 2011 - 2013. Station QR00. Summary of Observations...... 20 Table 3 MassDEP SMART 2011 - 2013. Station CA12. Summary of Observations...... 21 Table 4 MassDEP SMART 2011 - 2013. Station QR06. Summary of Observations...... 22 Table 5 MassDEP SMART 2011 - 2013. Station FR11. Summary of Observations...... 23 Table 6 MassDEP SMART 2011 - 2013. Station FR12. Summary of Observations...... 24 Table 7 Climate Conditions at Southbridge, MA from March 18-21, 2011 ...... 26 Table 8 Climate Conditions at Southbridge, MA from January 20-25, 2012 ...... 27 Table 9 Climate Conditions at Southbridge, MA from February 22-27, 2013 ...... 27 Table 10 French/Quinebaug Basin Precipitation Data Summary 2011-2013* ...... 29 Table 11 USGS Flow Data Summary Discharge for Quinebaug River at Quinebaug, CT 2011-2013* ...... 29 Table 12 MassDEP SMART 2011-2013. Station QR00. In Situ Multiprobe Data...... 31 Table 13 MassDEP SMART 2011-2013. Station CA12. In Situ Multiprobe Data...... 32 Table 14 MassDEP SMART 2011-2013. Station QR06. In Situ Multiprobe Data...... 33 Table 15 MassDEP SMART 2011-2013. Station FR11. In Situ Multiprobe Data...... 34 Table 16 MassDEP SMART 2011-2013. Station FR12. In Situ Multiprobe Data...... 35 Table 17 MassDEP SMART 2011-2013. Station QR00. Chemistry Data...... 36 Table 18 MassDEP SMART 2011-2013. Station CA12. Chemistry Data...... 37 Table 19 MassDEP SMART 2011-2013. Station QR06. Chemistry Data...... 38 Table 20 MassDEP SMART 2011-2013. Station FR11. Chemistry Data...... 39 Table 21 MassDEP SMART 2011-2013. Station FR12. Chemistry Data...... 43

Cover photo by Therese Beaudoin, MassDEP. 31 August 2011. All photos in document taken by Therese Beaudoin. MassDEP. CERO. SMART monitoring logo designed by Robert Kimball and Barbara Kimball.

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LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1 MassDEP SMART French/Quinebaug Rivers Watershed Water Quality Station Locations ...... 6 Figure 2 Google Earth view of Station QR00 area ...... 10 Figure 3 Station QR00 upstream (9/26/2012) ...... 10 Figure 4 Station QR00 Tornado (6/1/2011) damage along southern bank of channel 9/26/2012 ...... 11 Figure 5 Google Earth view of Station CA12 area ...... 12 Figure 6 Station CA12 upstream (8/31/2011) ...... 12 Figure 7 Station CA12 Water column at sampling location 9/26/2012 ...... 13 Figure 8 Google Earth view of Station QR06 area ...... 14 Figure 9 Station QR06 upstream (9/26/2012) ...... 14 Figure 10 Station QR06 Water column at sampling location 7/25/2012 ...... 15 Figure 11 Google Earth view of Station FR11 area ...... 16 Figure 12 Station FR11 upstream (9/26/2012) ...... 16 Figure 13 Station FR11 Water column at sampling location 9/26/2012 ...... 17 Figure 14 Google Earth view of Station FR12 area ...... 18 Figure 15 Station FR12 upstream (9/26/2012) ...... 18 Figure 16 Station FR12 Water column at sampling location 4/24/2013 ...... 19

LIST OF LATIN NAMES

Latin Name Common name Latin Name Common name Anura order frogs Micropterus dolomieu smallmouth bass Carex sp. sedge Myriophyllum sp. milfoil Castor canadensis North American beaver Plecoptera order stoneflies Ceratophyllum demersum coontail, hornwort Rana catesbeiana American bullfrog Culicidae family mosquitoes Rana clamitans green frog Elodea canadensis waterweed Sagittaria sp. arrowhead Eutrochium sp. Joe-pye weed Semotilus corporalis fallfish Gramineae family true grasses Tipulidae family crane flies Lemna sp. duckweed Trichoptera order caddisflies Lobelia cardinalis cardinal flower Vallisneria sp. eelgrass, tape grass Lontra canadensis North American river otter Wolffia sp. watermeal

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LIST OF ACRONYMS

% sat percent oxygen saturation 305(b) Section 305(b), Clean Water Act 7Q10 the lowest 7-day average streamflow that occurs, on average, once every 10 years BRP Bureau of Resource Protection BWR Bureau of Water Resources ºC degree Celsius CERO Central Regional Office CFR Coldwater Fish Resource cfs cubic feet per second cond specific conductivity CSO Combined Sewer Overflow CT Connecticut DO dissolved oxygen DWM Division of Watershed Management ºF degree Fahrenheit ft feet F/Q French/Quinebaug GPD gallons per day in inch m meter MA Massachusetts MassDEP Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection MDL method detection limit MGD million gallons per day µS/cm microsiemens per centimeter mg/L milligrams per liter mi mile mi2 square mile NH3-N ammonia nitrogen NOAA National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration NO3NO2-N nitrate-nitrite nitrogen NPDES National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System NTU Nephelometric Turbidity Unit NWS National Weather Service POR Period of Record QA quality assurance QAPP Quality Assurance Project Plan QC quality control RDL reporting detection limit RI Rhode Island RPD relative percent difference SMART Strategic Monitoring and Assessment for River basin Teams SOP standard operating procedure SR state road SU Standard Unit Ssolids suspended solids Temp temperature TDS total dissolved solids TMDL Total Maximum Daily Load TN total nitrogen TPhos total phosphorus Turb turbidity USACE United States Army Corps of Engineers USGS United States Geological Survey WES Wall Experiment Station WWTP wastewater treatment plant

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INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this technical memorandum is to present observations and data collected from 2011-2013 as part of the Strategic Monitoring and Assessment for River basin Teams (SMART) program in the F/Q watershed, highlighting how the program supports and augments programs of the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) Bureau of Resource Protection (BRP, now the Bureau of Water Resources, BWR) Central Regional Office (CERO) and the Division of Watershed Management (DWM).

Overview of Monitoring Plan

Bimonthly water quality monitoring began in March 1999. The sampling plan matrix for the SMART monitoring program Years 2011-2013 is presented in Table 1; the location of sampling stations is presented in Figure 1Error! Reference source not found.. Sampling components at all stations included:

. in situ measurements: dissolved oxygen (DO), percent oxygen saturation, pH, specific conductivity, temperature (T), depth and total dissolved solids (TDS); . physical/chemical constituents: total alkalinity, chlorides, hardness, total suspended solids (TSS), turbidity; . nutrients: ammonia-nitrogen (NH3-N), nitrate-nitrite-nitrogen (NO3—NO2-N), total nitrogen (TN), and total phosphorus (TP); . flow measurements (at existing USGS flow gaging stations); and . general field observations.

Table 1 French/Quinebaug Basin SMART Sampling Summary – 2011 through 2013

Station Station 1 Location and Segment Numbers Dates Sampled Name Type

Quinebaug River @ Holland Road, Sturbridge MA41-01 QR00 Reference 2011: 3/23/11, 4/27/11, 6/22/11, 8/31/11. 10/26/11 2012: 1/25/12, 3/28/12, 5/29/12, 7/25/12, 9/26/12, 11/14/12 2 2 Cady Brook at gas pipeline above upper Cady Brook 2013: 2/27/13, 4/24/13, 8/27/13 , 9/23/13 CA12 Impact crossing @ State Road (SR) 169, Charlton MA41-06 1Sampling began in the French/Quinebaug Basin on 4/21/1999; Quinebaug River @ SR 197, Thompson, CT below MA41-04 QR06 Boundary the Cady Brook station (CA12) was added in 2/26/2003, and the French River at Perryville (FR12) on 2/24/2009. French River @ Oxford Ave, Dudley MA42-05 FR11 Impact 2Sampling was conducted at Station QR06, Quinebaug River at Quinebaug, CT only French River below Perryville Road, Webster, MA MA42-06 FR12 Impact

Hydrology

The French/Quinebaug (F/Q) watershed, part of the Thames River Basin, lies in the south-central part of Massachusetts (MA). The Thames has a total drainage area of 1,474 square miles (mi2), of which 251 mi2 are in MA, 61 mi2 in Rhode Island (RI) and 1,162 mi2 in Connecticut (CT, USACE 2015). In Massachusetts, the Thames Basin is comprised mostly of the Quinebaug River and its major tributary, the French River. For a detailed description of the Quinebaug River Watershed, see French and Quinebaug Rivers Watershed Water Quality Assessment Report 2004 - 2008 (MassDEP 2009).

The Quinebaug River flows approximately 76 miles (mi) from its beginning, either at the outlet of Goodall’s Pond (also known as Little Massapoag Pond) or Mashapaug Lake (although Mashapaug Lake normally drains south to

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Figure 1 MassDEP SMART French/Quinebaug Rivers Watershed Water Quality Station Locations

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Bigelow Brook and the Shetucket Watershed, it sometimes flows to the north, and the Quinebaug Watershed). The 28-mi segment of the Quinebaug River and its associated watershed within Massachusetts encompasses all or part of 14 towns. The river is characterized by long runs and three large impoundments (Hamilton Reservoir, East Brimfield Lake and West Dudley Pond) as well as several smaller ones. Numerous dams remain on the mainstem, including two United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) flood control projects, East Brimfield and Westville Lakes; these operate in a run-of-river mode under normal conditions. There are also two hydropower projects: the Old Sturbridge Village Project, Sturbridge; and the West Dudley Project, Dudley.

Annual precipitation ranges from 48 to 50 inches (in) over most of the watershed, with a section in the south- central to southeast area along the CT border averaging 50 to 52 in (Ostiguy et al 2010).

Massachusetts tributaries of the Quinebaug River include the Mill, Hobbs, McKinstry, Cady, Breakneck, Hamant, Hatchet, Cohasse, Lebanon and McIntyre Pond brooks. Coldwater Fish Resources (CFR) have been identified on twenty-three tributaries to the Quinebaug River (including Hamant, Hatchet, and McKinstry Brooks), but not the mainstem itself (MassDFG 2015).

The French River flows approximately 26 mi from its beginning at the outlet of Greenville Pond, Leicester to its junction with the Quinebaug. The French River watershed within Massachusetts encompasses all or part of 10 towns. The river is characterized by long runs and numerous impoundments (Rochdale, Texas, and Perryville ponds, as well as a large, unnamed impoundment above North Village, Webster). The Hodges Village flood control project is a dry bed reservoir on the mainstem, and typically operates in a run-of-river mode. The Buffumville Lake project on the Little River maintains a large recreational pool (186 acres); it is operated in a run- of-river mode under most conditions. Annual precipitation ranges from 48 to 50 in over most of the watershed, with a small area averaging 50 to 52 in located on the Connecticut border in Webster and Dudley (Ostiguy et al 2010).

The French River is the largest tributary to the Quinebaug River in MA, joining the mainstem in Thompson, CT. Tributaries of the French River in Massachusetts include the Little River, Lowes and Mill Brooks, and a number of smaller streams. The French River from the North Oxford Dam upstream of Clara Barton Road, Oxford, to the dam at North Village, Webster/Dudley is designated as a coldwater fishery; Wellington Brook and an unnamed tributary have also been identified as CFRs (MassDFG 2015).

Quality Assurance/Quality Control

The quality assurance/control (QA/QC) plan for the SMART program is presented in CN 012.1: Quality Assurance Project Plan [QAPP] Strategic Monitoring and Assessment for River basin Teams (SMART) (Blackstone, Chicopee, Concord, French/Quinebaug, Millers, and Nashua Watersheds) 2008-2012 (Beaudoin 2008). The QAPP presents data quality objectives, quality assurance procedures, and other program-specific information.

Aerial photos were obtained from Google Earth (2015a, 2015b, 2015c, 2015d, 2015e) at a height of approximately 4,000 feet (ft).

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PROJECT OBJECTIVES

The primary water quality objectives of the SMART monitoring program are:  Document baseline water quality by: providing information on low flow/event flow variation, seasonal variation and frequency of selected constituents; and establishing reference distributions of key constituents for ecoregion delineation and “clean water” sites;  Estimate loads of detected water constituents at key locations by: quantifying nitrogen loadings to coastal waters; and calculating phosphorous loads upstream/downstream of representative land use areas;  Define long term trends in water quality by: documenting improvements associated with major abatement projects; and identifying trends at least-impacted stations (that may result from factors such as acid precipitation and climate change);  Assess attainment of water quality uses by: comparing existing water quality with water quality standards; and by assessing use support for the fishable/swimmable goal;  Provide support for other programs by: determining reference distributions for ecoregion stations; conducting trend analysis for the 305(b) reports1 and basin plans; quantifying nutrient loadings for load allocations (Total Maximum Daily Loads, or TMDLs); obtaining data on nonpoint source loadings for more intensive Year 2 sampling; providing guidance for volunteer monitoring; collecting data for development of statistically-based water quality standards and for improvement of Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) and Stormwater policies; and developing a long-term database on conditions at key locations for the development of new programs and basic research.

As stated in the Introduction, this document presents observations and data collected in the French and Quinebaug Rivers Watershed under the SMART program from 2011-2013. An assessment of the data will be presented in future reports.

METHODS

Water quality sampling procedures are included in Grab Collection Techniques for DWM Water Quality Sampling, Standard Operating Procedure (MassDEP 1999b). Use of the in situ monitoring equipment followed procedures set forth in CN 4.0 Water Quality Multi-probe Instrument Use, Standard Operating Procedure (MassDEP 1999a). Physical/chemical and nutrient samples were analyzed at the Wall Experiment Station (WES), the MassDEP analytical laboratory located in Lawrence, Massachusetts. All samples were collected, transported, analyzed, and discarded according to chain-of-custody procedures. In addition to the measurements and analytes noted above, field observations were recorded at each station on standardized field sheets, field notebooks, and as photographs. Field observations included date/time, location, crewmembers, snow cover, canopy cover, water odors, colors, sheens, foams, estimated river height and velocity, weather conditions, observed uses, wildlife, aquatic algae and macrophytes, potential pollution sources, and unusual conditions. Number and type of samples were recorded, as well as the last set of in situ data collected. A summary of field observations by station collected during this sampling period are presented in Table 2 through Table 5 following the station descriptions. Each station selected for the SMART Monitoring program is described according to key characteristics associated with water quality at that location, as follows:  Reference: a reference station is located in a stream segment that is minimally influenced by anthropogenic activities;  Impact: an impact station is located where several sources of pollution come together and can be used to calibrate a mass balance model, or where critical reactions take place such as at an oxygen sag point; and  Boundary: a boundary station is located at a pour point i.e., where water leaves a designated river basin, or at a state line.

1 The 305(b) reports are the biannual reports to the U. S. Congress on water quality that are required under Section 305(b) of the Clean Water Act.

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Field sheets, raw data files, chain of custody forms, lab reports, and other metadata used in this report are managed and maintained by the MassDEP DWM in the Water Quality Access Database in Worcester, MA. The validation of the water quality data included data entry into DWM databases, data entry quality control checks, analysis for outliers, blank contamination, duplicates, precision, and holding time violations, followed by project level review (MassDEP 2005). The project coordinator, as identified in the QAPP for the SMART program (CN 012.2), reviews the data for reasonableness, completeness and acceptability (Beaudoin 2008).

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STATION OBSERVATIONS

Station QR00 – Quinebaug River at Holland Road, Sturbridge, MA (river mile 15.202)

Figure 2 Google Earth view of Station QR00 area

Figure 3 Station QR00 upstream (9/26/2012)

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Station QR00 is located on the Quinebaug River in Sturbridge, MA within the Lower Worcester Plateau ecoregion. From 2011-2013, the station was sampled 13 times, and access was gained from the southern shore upstream of the Holland Road Bridge. Samples were collected by wading to flowing water. Station QR00 serves as a reference station, minimally influenced by anthropogenic activities.

Land uses near this station included forest, rural residential, and roadways (Figure 2; Google Earth 2015a). The large recreational pool at the relatively shallow East Brimfield flood control project (420 acres at typical pool height) also influences water quality at this station. No municipal National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) discharges are located upstream (design flow greater than 1 million gallons per day, or MGD), nor are there any large water withdrawals (greater than 100,000 gallons per day, or GPD).

The river is a riffle in this area, approximately 55 feet (ft) wide and typically 1 to 4 ft deep (Figure 3). Deciduous and evergreen trees provided shade along the banks, and the canopy covered most of the channel above the sample collection site. However, a tornado carved a path adjacent to the river in this reach on 6/1/2011; the reduction in forested bank opened this previously heavily shaded area to sunlight (see Figure 4). Observation of the water column and benthic environment was affected by turbulence and solar reflection. When visible, the bottom was mostly boulder, cobble and gravel, with little sand.

Aquatic macrophytes observed at Station QR00 included Carex sp. (sedge), Ceratophyllum demersum (coontail, hornwort), Elodea canadensis (waterweed), Eutrochium sp. (Joe-pye weed), Graminae (grasses), Lobelia cardinalis (cardinal flower) and Myriophyllum sp. (milfoil). Periphyton, when present and/or visible, ranged from sparse to very dense. Periphyton density ranged from sparse to very dense, when visible, and consisted most often of dense to very dense moss; filamentous algae were observed on 3 of 13 events, and a loose green floc on one event.

Wildlife observed at Station QR00 from 2011-2013 includes North American beaver (Castor canadensis), North American river otter (Lontra canadensis), smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu), green frog (Rana clamitans) and various songbirds. Aquatic insects included Culicidae (mosquitoes) and Plecoptera (stoneflies).

On most events, the water column was clear, red, with a sparse coverage of foam, and lacking in odor, sheens and trash.

Figure 4 Station QR00 Tornado (6/1/2011) damage along southern bank of channel 9/26/2012

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Station CA12 – Cady Brook at Southbridge Road (State Road/SR-169), Charlton, MA (river mile 3.268)

Figure 5 Google Earth view of Station CA12 area

Figure 6 Station CA12 upstream (8/31/2011)

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Station CA12 is located on Cady Brook in Charlton, MA within the Southern New England Coastal Plains and Hills ecoregion. From 2011-2013, the station was sampled 13 times, and access was gained from the western shore at the downstream edge of the gas pipeline transmission corridor, north of the upstream-most of the two Cady Brook bridges on Southbridge Road (SR-169). Samples were collected by wading to flowing water or, when the flow was too high and/or fast, from shore with a sampling pole. Station CA12 serves as an impact station as it is located downstream of numerous point and nonpoint sources of pollution, as described below.

Upstream land uses include forest, residential, commercial, and roadways (Figure 5; Google Earth 2015b). The Charlton Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP), a major municipal NPDES discharge, is located approximately 4.8 mi upstream; there are no large water withdrawals.

The river at this location is a run, approximately 12 ft wide and 1 to 3 ft deep. The shoreline is shaded by complete canopy cover up- and downstream of the gas pipeline transmission corridor, which is maintained to minimize woody vegetation (Figure 6). Observation of the water column and benthic environment was affected by turbulence and solar reflection. The stream bottom consisted mainly of a mixture of boulder, cobble, gravel, and sand. Periphyton was noted on most sampling events, most frequently as moss; filamentous (2 events) and film algae (4 events) were also noted. When present, aquatic macrophytes were sparse, and limited to members of the Gramineae family (grass) and Vallisneria sp. (eelgrass). Aquatic and other organisms noted here included Anura order (frogs), Culicidae family (mosquitoes), exuviae from the Plecoptera order (stonefly), songbirds and immature fish.

On most events, the water column was clear in both color and clarity, with very sparse to sparse foam, and lacking odors, sheens and trash.

Figure 7 Station CA12 Water column at sampling location 9/26/2012

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Station QR06 – Quinebaug River at Old Turnpike Road (SR-197), Thompson, CT (river mile -0.373)2

Figure 8 Google Earth view of Station QR06 area

Figure 9 Station QR06 upstream (9/26/2012)

2 River mile calculation begins at the Massachusetts state boundary; as this station is below the state boundary, the river mile is a negative value.

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Station QR06 is located on the Quinebaug River in Thompson, CT, within the Southern New England Coastal Plains and Hills ecoregion. From 2011-2013, the station was sampled 15 times, and access was gained from the western shore upstream (north) of the Old Turnpike Road (SR-197) Bridge. Samples were collected by wading to flowing water or, when the flow was too high and/or fast, from shore with a sampling pole. Station QR06 serves as a boundary station, representing water quality in the Quinebaug River as it enters the State of Connecticut.

Upstream land uses include forest, residential, industrial, commercial, and roadways (Figure 8; Google Earth 2015c). An upstream hydropower project at West Dudley Pond impacts this reach. The Southbridge WWTP, a major municipal NPDES discharge, is located 4.7 mi upstream. A large water withdrawal is located upstream at the American Optical facility, and includes the permitted withdrawal for the Millennium power plant (Charlton).

The river is a run in this area; the channel is approximately 65 ft wide and shaded along the channel edges ( Figure 9). Banks were undercut throughout the site area. Observation of the water column and benthic environment was affected by turbulence and solar reflection. When visible, the bottom consisted mainly of boulder, cobble, gravel and sand. Periphyton was observed on approximately half of the sampling events when habitat was visible, and included film, algae and moss. No aquatic macrophytes were observed near this station during this time period. Aquatic and other life included Micropterus dolomieu (smallmouth bass), exuviae from the Plecoptera order (stoneflies), Rana catesbeiana (American bullfrog), Semotilus corporalis (fallfish), Tipulidae family (crane fly), cases from the Trichoptera order (caddisflies) and songbirds.

When visible, the water column was typically clear in clarity and color, with minor trash and sparse foam, and lacking odors and sheens.

Figure 10 Station QR06 Water column at sampling location 7/25/2012

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Station FR11 – French River near Oxford Ave, Webster, MA (river mile 2.106)

Figure 11 Google Earth view of Station FR11 area

Figure 12 Station FR11 upstream (9/26/2012)

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Station FR11 is located on the French River in Dudley, MA within the Southern New England Coastal Plains and Hills ecoregion. From 2011-2013 the station was sampled 12 times; on 2/27/2013, access was unsafe in this reach due to steep icy banks. The river was sampled from the northern shore upstream of the Oxford Ave Bridge. Samples were collected by wading to flowing water or, when the flow was too high and/or fast, from shore with a sampling pole. Station FR11 serves as an impact station as it is located downstream of numerous point and nonpoint sources of pollution, as described below.

Land uses near and upstream of this station include forest, residential, commercial and industrial; an upstream hydropower project impacts the river in this reach (Figure 11; Google Earth 2015d). The nearest upstream municipal NPDES discharge is approximately 13.5 mi. above this site. Station FR11 is within the Zone II of four large water supply wells for the town of Dudley.

The river is a run in this area, approximately 40 ft wide, and the channel is typically too deep to wade (Figure 12). Trees provide shade over most of the stream corridor. Turbulence and solar reflection prevented observation of the water column and benthic environment on all but one event ((9/26/2012). On this date, the bottom consisted of boulder, cobble, gravel, sand and silt. Sagittaria sp. (arrowhead), an emergent plant, was the only aquatic macrophyte noted at this station during this time period; submergent vegetation may have been present, but unobservable. Periphytic growth was present on the 2 sampling events when the water column was observable, and included filamentous and film algae. Other aquatic life included Micropterus dolomieu (smallmouth bass), exuviae of the Plecoptera order (stonefly) and songbirds.

Typically, the water column was yellow, with very sparse to sparse foam, and lacking in odors and sheens. Turbidity was observable on less than half of the monitoring dates, and ranged from clear to slightly turbid. Observations of trash were limited by turbulence and solar reflection on most dates; however, floatables were noted on 7 events. Other trash items included shopping carts, broken glass, metal and miscellaneous items.

Figure 13 Station FR11 Water column at sampling location 9/26/2012

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Station FR12 – French River below Perryville Road, Webster, MA (river mile 0.020)

Figure 14 Google Earth view of Station FR12 area

Figure 15 Station FR12 upstream (9/26/2012)

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Station FR12 is located on the French River in Webster, within the Southern New England Coastal Plains and Hills ecoregion. From 2011-2013, Station FR12 was sampled 13 times. The river was accessed from the eastern shore downstream of the Perryville Road Bridge. Samples were collected by wading to flowing water or from shore with a sampling pole. Station FR12 serves as a boundary station, representing water quality in the Quinebaug River as it enters the State of Connecticut.

Land uses near and upstream of this station include forest, residential, urban, commercial and industrial. An active rail line is adjacent to the river on the east (Figure 14; Google Earth 2015e). The town of Webster NPDES discharge is approximately one mile upstream, as well as five water supply wells for the town of Dudley.

The river is a run in this area, approximately 40 ft wide, and typically too deep to wade (Figure 15). Although trees provide shade over most of the channel near the sample site, the shallow, 7-acre (approximate) Perryville Pond impoundment is located approximately 200 feet upstream. Observation of the water column and benthic environment was affected by turbulence and solar reflection on 10 of the 13 sampling events; bottom staining also affected observations. When visible, the bottom consisted mainly of boulder, cobble, gravel, sand and silt. Aquatic macrophytes observed in this location included members of the Gramineae family (grasses), Lemna sp. (duckweed), Myriophyllum sp. (milfoil), Vallisneria sp. (eelgrass) and Wolffia sp. (water meal). Wildlife included songbirds, which were noted on most sampling dates, and a frog (order Anura), noted on 9/26/2012.

When visible, the water column was typically clear in color, with minor trash and moderate foam, and absent of odors and sheens. Water clarity was clear or slightly turbid on the 6 dates that the water column was observable.

Figure 16 Station FR12 Water column at sampling location 4/24/2013

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Table 2 MassDEP SMART 2011 - 2013. Station QR00. Summary of Observations.

Wet/Dry Survey Dates Substrate Trash Periphyton Color Odor Foam Sheen Turbidity Conditions 3/23/2011 Unobservable Unobservable Unobservable Light yellow None Sparse None Unobservable Wet Unobservable; dense: moss, where 4/27/2011 Unobservable Unobservable visible Clear None Sparse None Unobservable Dry 6/22/2011 Unobservable Unobservable Very dense: moss Red None Sparse None Unobservable Dry 8/31/2011 Unobservable Minor: floatables Filamentous Clear None Sparse None Slight Wet - TS Irene Unobservable; sparse: moss, where 10/26/2011 Unobservable Unobservable visible Red None Sparse None Unobservable Dry

Unobservable; very dense moss, 1/25/2012 Unobservable Unobservable olive green loose floc where visible Red, slight None Sparse None Clear Wet 3/28/2012 Boulder/cobble/gravel/sand None Dense: moss Red Eutrophic pond Sparse None Clear Dry

Very dense: dark green filamentous Fishy, eutrophic 5/29/2012 Boulder/cobble/gravel/sand None on moss; very dense moss Red pond Sparse None Slight Dry 7/25/2012 Boulder/cobble/gravel/sand None Moderate: moss Red Eutrophic pond None None Clear Dry Sparse: blue-green filamentous; 9/26/2012 Boulder/cobble/gravel/sand/silt None sparse moss Red, slight None None None Clear Dry 11/14/2012 Boulder/cobble/gravel/sand/silt None Dense: moss Red, slight None None None Clear Wet 2/27/2013 Unobservable None None Clear None Sparse None Clear Wet 4/24/2013 Boulder/cobble/gravel/sand None Dense: moss Clear None Sparse None Clear Dry -- : Data not available

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Table 3 MassDEP SMART 2011 - 2013. Station CA12. Summary of Observations.

Wet/Dry Survey Dates Substrate Trash Periphyton Color Odor Foam Sheen Turbidity Conditions 3/23/2011 Cobble/gravel/sand None Dense: moss Clear None Very sparse None Clear Wet 4/27/2011 Cobble/gravel/sand None Sparse: dark green film Light yellow None Moderate None Clear Dry 6/22/2011 Boulder/cobble/gravel/sand/silt Minor, single golf ball None Clear None Very sparse None Clear Dry 8/31/2011 Boulver/cobble/gravel/sand None Sparse: moss Clear None Sparse None Clear Wet - TS Irene Boulder/cobble/gravel/sand; 10/26/2011 embedded Minor: newspaper Sparse: moss Red None Sparse None Clear Dry Sparse: bright green filamentous; 1/25/2012 Cobble/gravel/sand None dense moss Light yellow None Very sparse None Clear Wet Boulder/cobble/gravel/sand; highly 3/28/2012 embedded None Sparse: moss Light yellow None Very sparse None Clear Dry Boulder/cobble/gravel/sand; 5/29/2012 embedded None Very dense: dark green film Light yellow None Sparse None Clear Dry Very dense: brown film; moss, 7/25/2012 Boulder/cobble/gravel/sand/silt None sparse Light yellow None None None Slight, milky Dry Moderate: dark green/brown film; 9/26/2012 Boulder/cobble/gravel/sand/silt None sparse moss Clear None Very sparse None Clear Dry 11/14/2012 Unobservable None Sparse: moss Clear None Sparse None Clear Wet 2/27/2013 Unobservable None None Clear None Sparse None Clear Wet Boulder/cobble/gravel/sand; highly Dense: bright green filamentous; 4/24/2013 embedded None dense moss Clear None Very sparse None Clear Dry -- : Data not available

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Table 4 MassDEP SMART 2011 - 2013. Station QR06. Summary of Observations. Wet/Dry Survey Dates Substrate Trash Periphyton Color Odor Foam Sheen Turbidity Conditions 3/23/2011 Unobservable Unobservable Unobservable Red None Sparse None Unobservable Wet 4/27/2011 Unobservable Unobservable Unobservable Clear None Sparse None Unobservable Dry 6/22/2011 Boulder/cobble/gravell/sand None None Clear None Sparse None Clear Dry Musty, eutrophic 8/31/2011 Unobservable Unobservable Unobservable Red pond Sparse None Clear Wet - TS Irene 10/26/2011 Unobservable Unobservable Unobservable Red None Sparse None Unobservable Dry 1/25/2012 Unobservable Unobservable Unobservable Light yellow None Sparse None Unobservable Wet 3/28/2012 Boulder/cobble/gravel/sand Minor: floatables None Red None Sparse None Clear Dry Moderate: dark green film; sparse: 5/29/2012 Cobble/gravel/sand; embedded Sparse: bicycle tires moss Red, slight None Moderate None Slight Dry Boulder/cobble/gravel/sand; 7/25/2012 embedded None Moderate: clear film Clear None None None Clear Dry Boulder/cobble/gravel/sand; 9/26/2012 embedded None Sparse: clear film Clear None Moderate None Clear Dry Unobservable; trash: floatables, 11/14/2012 Unobservable where visible Unobservable Light yellow None Sparse None Clear Wet Minor: broken pieces of unknown 2/27/2013 Unobservable items None Clear None Moderate None Clear Wet Boulder/cobble/gravel/sand; highly 4/24/2013 embedded Minor: floatables None Clear None Sparse None Clear Dry -- : Data not available

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Table 5 MassDEP SMART 2011 - 2013. Station FR11. Summary of Observations.

Wet/Dry Survey Dates Substrate Trash Periphyton Color Odor Foam Sheen Turbidity Conditions 3/23/2011 Unobservable Unobservable; floatables where Unobservable Clear None Sparse None Unobservable Wet 4/27/2011 Unobservable Unobservable; floatables where Unobservable Light yellow None Moderate None Unobservable Dry 6/22/2011 Unobservable Unobservable; floatables where Unobservable Light yellow None Moderate None Unobservable Dry Musty, eutrophic 8/31/2011 Unobservable Unobservable Unobservable Red pond Sparse None Slight Wet - TS Irene Unobservable; floatables, shopping 10/26/2011 Unobservable card where visible Unobservable Red None Sparse None Unobservable Dry Unobservable; broken glass, 1/25/2012 Unobservable shopping cart where visible Unobservable Light yellow None Very sparse None Unobservable Wet 3/28/2012 Unobservable Floatables Unobservable Light yellow None Sparse None Unobservable Dry Eutrophic pond, 5/29/2012 Unobservable Unobservable Unobservable Red, slight strong Moderate None Slight Dry Moderate: floatables, shopping carts, unidentifiable metals, misc. Moderate: filamentous, covered in Light yellow; red, 7/25/2012 Unobservable items silt slight None Moderate None Slight, milky Dry Sparse: blue-green filamentous; very dense brown film, covered in 9/26/2012 Boulder/cobble/gravel/sand/silt Minor: shopping cart(s), floatables silt Clear Eutrophic pond Sparse None Clear Dry 11/14/2012 Unobservable Unobservable Unobservable Light yellow None Sparse None Unobservable Wet 2/27/2013 Station not sampled on this date; not accessible due to icy, steep banks Unobservable; metal items where 4/24/2013 Unobservable visible Unobservable Clear None Sparse None Clear Dry -- : Data not available

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Table 6 MassDEP SMART 2011 - 2013. Station FR12. Summary of Observations.

Wet/Dry Survey Dates Substrate Trash Periphyton Color Odor Foam Sheen Turbidity Conditions 3/23/2011 Unobservable Unobservable Unobservable Clear None Moderate None Unobservable Wet Unobservable; sparse: moss where 4/27/2011 Unobservable Unobservable visible Light yellow Effluent Dense None Unobservable Dry 6/22/2011 Boulder/cobble/gravel/sand Minor: broken glass, floatables Very dense: moss Light yellow None Moderate None Clear Dry 8/31/2011 Unobservable Unobservable Unobservable Red None Moderate None Slight Wet - TS Irene 10/26/2011 Unobservable Unobservable Unobservable Red Effluent, slight Moderate None Unobservable Dry Unobservable; sparse bright green Moderate/den 1/25/2012 Unobservable Unobservable filamentous where visible Red None se None Unobservable Wet 3/28/2012 Unobservable; bottom stained Minor: beer cans, floatables Unobservable Light yellow None Sparse None Unobservable Dry Unobservable; moderate: moss 5/29/2012 Unobservable Unobservable where visible Red, slight Effluent, slight Dense None Slight Dry Light yellow; red, 7/25/2012 Boulder/cobble/gravel/sand/silt Minor: floatables Sparse: clear film slight None None None Slight, milky Dry Unobservable (covered in silt); 9/26/2012 Boulder/cobble/gravel/sand/silt Minor: plastic chair, beer can(s) sparse moss where visible Clear Fishy Sparse None Clear Dry Unobservable; moderate: moss 11/14/2012 Unobservable Unobservable where visible Light yellow None Moderate None Unobservable Wet 2/27/2013 Unobservable Unobservable Unobservable Clear None Moderate None Unobservable Wet 4/24/2013 Boulder/cobble/gravel/sand/silt None Moderate: moss Clear Effluent Moderate None Clear Dry -- : Data not available

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SURVEY CONDITIONS

Stream discharge and precipitation data are used to determine hydrologic conditions and, consequently, if water quality surveys should be described as dry- or wet weather-influenced events. Precipitation data for each monitoring event were obtained from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The presence/absence of precipitation during the five days prior to each sampling event was based on the National Weather Service (NWS) data located on their website NOAA Climatological Data Publications (NOAA 2015). The weather station closest to the French/Quinebaug watershed sampling stations is located in Southbridge, MA; precipitation data collected here were utilized in this report. However, temperature data were not available, therefore data collected at the Worcester station were utilized. Precipitation ranges from 48 to 50 inches (in) throughout most of the basin in Massachusetts; a small area ranges from 50 to 52 inches in the south-central area along the CT border (Ostiguy et al 2010).

During dry weather, trace amounts of precipitation may fall, but there is no measurable change in stream flow. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) operates four real time stream gaging stations in the French/ Quinebaug Watershed that are applicable to this water quality data set, as shown below:

 Quinebaug River below East Brimfield Dam at Fiskdale, MA (USGS 2015a)  Quinebaug River below Westville Dam near Southbridge, MA (USGS 2015b)  Quinebaug River at Quinebaug, CT (USGS 2015c) and  French River at Webster, MA (USGS 2012d).

Discharge data (in cubic feet per second, or cfs) from the stations in Massachusetts can be accessed at Daily Data for Massachusetts: Stage and Streamflow (USGS 2015e) and for Connecticut at Daily Data for Connecticut: Stage and Streamflow (USGS 2015f). Discharge data at the French River/Webster gaging station are not available online for this time period

The period of record (POR) mean streamflow values are the mean of daily mean values for each day for 82-83 years of record at the USGS Quinebaug River gage at Quinebaug, CT (USGS station number 01124000). These daily means are reported at Daily mean data (USGS 2015g). The monthly mean discharges are found at Monthly mean data (USGS 2015h).

Wet weather is defined as precipitation within a five-day antecedent period that leads to more than a slight increase in stream discharge at the four stations listed above. Under dry weather conditions, trace amounts of precipitation may fall, but no measurable change in stream flow occurs. All of the French/Quinebaug Watershed gaging stations were affected by flow manipulation and were difficult to distinguish from precipitation-related fluctuations on some dates.

Precipitation and discharge data as well as field observations were used to determine if samples were impacted by surface water runoff. Table 10 (precipitation) and Table 11 (stream discharge) report survey conditions during each sampling event. Precipitation data utilized in this tech memo were reported at the Southbridge, MA National Weather Service (NWS) station. Discharge data were collected at the USGS stream gaging station on the Quinebaug River in Quinebaug, CT. Low flows were compared to the 7Q10 flow (the lowest 7-day average streamflow that occurs, on average, once every 10 years) at the Quinebaug River, Quinebaug, CT (16.640 cfs) (USGS 2015i); the 7Q10 at the French River upstream of the Webster-Dudley WWTP is 14.8 cfs (USGS 2015j). Air temperature was recorded at each station in degrees Fahrenheit (ºF).

March 23, 2011 – This early spring sampling event followed a storm that brought 0.32 in to the area (as recorded at the Southbridge weather station) on March 22 (1.5 in as snow); for climate information, see Table 7. Overall, discharge at all watershed gages varied little from March 19-23, (decreasing steadily at Quinebaug River at Quinebaug, CT) remaining well above the mean daily discharge on all dates (based on 35 years of record). The maximum daily temperature on March 22 was 29 °F and 33°F on the sampling date, while the measured snow on the ground decreased from 2 to 0 in. Field observations note water levels at all stations were 0.5-3+ feet above normal for this time of year. Based on snowfall, snow on the ground, maximum daily temperature and field observations, water quality on this date reflects wet weather/snowmelt conditions. Air temperature ranged from 31 to 34 ºF under overcast skies. Trees and shrubs were not yet in bud at the Quinebaug River watershed stations, while buds were just beginning to form at those in the French River watershed.

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Table 7 Climate Conditions at Southbridge, MA from March 18-21, 2011 Parameter Mar 18 Mar 19 Mar 20 Mar 21 Mar 22 Mar 23 Max Temperature (ºF) 1,2 64 47 44 33 39 33 Precipitation (in as water) 0 0 0 0 0.32 0 Snowfall (in) 0 0 0 0 1.5 0 Snow on the ground (in) 0 0 0 0 2 0 1 Data from the Southbridge weather station are available at NOAA Climatological Data Publications (NOAA 2015). 2 Temperature data were not available for the Southbridge station; data from the Worcester station are reported.

April 27, 2011 – In the 5-day period preceding this spring monitoring event, 0.67 in of rainfall was recorded at Southbridge, most of which fell on 4/23-24 (0.61 in). The pattern of discharge varied at area gages; at the Quinebaug River at East Brimfield gage, discharge remained steady at approximately 350 cfs from April 23-27, which may indicate flow management activities at the East Brimfield flood control project dam. At the Quinebaug River gages at Westville and Quinebaug CT, discharge decreased slowly and steadily during this period. At the French River at Webster gage, flows rose slightly from April 23-24, and remained at approximately 400 cfs on April 25. Then several rapid flow fluctuations occurred through April 27, which may indicate hydropower operations upstream. Water levels ranged from normal (Quinebaug River at Sturbridge, Cady Brook at Charlton) to 3+ft above normal (Quinebaug River, Quinebaug CT). Based on the precipitation, discharge pattern and water level at most stations, water quality data collected on this date reflect dry weather conditions. Air temperature ranged from 66 to 72ºF throughout monitoring activities. Although the sky was mostly sunny at Station CA12 (<5% cloud cover), skies were overcast at most stations (with drizzle at Station QR06, Quinebaug River at Quinebaug CT). In the Quinebaug River watershed, trees and shrubs were beginning to bud; in the French River watershed, buds were fully formed and leaves were beginning to emerge.

June 22, 2011 – This summer event followed a three-day dry period with generally decreasing discharge and normal to low water levels throughout the watershed. Field observations note drizzle/rain fell at two of five stations, although no precipitation was recorded on this date at the Southbridge Airport NWS station. Based on precipitation and discharge data, water quality on this date reflects dry conditions. Air temperature ranged from 68 to 72ºF with overcast skies and intermittent drizzle developing to rain by the end of monitoring activities.

August 31, 2011 – Tropical storm Irene dropped 5.8 in on the area on August 28-29; discharge at area rose and remained well above the median daily flow at all watershed gages through August 31. Water quality data reflect wet weather/runoff conditions. Air temperature ranged from 64 to 76°F under sunny to partly sunny skies.

October 26, 2011 – Fall sampling in 2005 was conducted within a dry period, with only 0.03 in precipitation recorded at Southbridge from October 21-26. Overall, discharge at watershed gages decreased during this period (several rapid fluctuations were reported at the Quinebaug River at Quinebaug, CT gage). Water quality data collected on this event reflect dry weather conditions. Air temperature increased from 44 to 47°F with overcast skies and intermittent fog and drizzle. Most deciduous leaves had changed color and many were down.

January 25, 2012 – Storms on January 20, 22 and 24 brought over 0.57 in of precipitation to the area (4+ in as snow); for climate details, see Table 8. The maximum daily temperatures from January 23-25 were above freezing (36 to 50ºF). Discharge at the Quinebaug River at East Brimfield fell steadily from January 18-24, then rose through monitoring activities on January 25; a similar pattern was seen at the Quinebaug River at Westfield. Discharge patterns at the Quinebaug River at Quinebaug, CT and the French River at Webster showed several rapid flow fluctuations, possibly associated with hydropower operations. Water quality data reflect wet weather/ snowmelt conditions. Air temperature ranged from 34 to 38ºF; cloud cover rose from 5% to overcast during monitoring activities.

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Table 8 Climate Conditions at Southbridge, MA from January 20-25, 2012 Parameter Jan 20 Jan 21 Jan 22 Jan 23 Jan 24 Jan 25 Max Temperature (ºF) 1,.2 27 17 28 47 50 36 Precipitation (inches as water) 0.15 T 0.21 0 0.21 0 Snowfall (inches) 2.0 T 2.0 0 0 0 Snow on the ground (inches) 2 2 4 4 0 0 1 Data from the Southbridge weather station are available at NOAA Climatological Data Publications (NOAA 2015). 2 Temperature data were not available for the Southbridge station; data from the Worcester station are reported.

March 28, 2012 – This early spring event followed a relatively dry period (0.08 in total precipitation from March 23-28)), with, in general, steadily decreasing discharge at area gages. Water quality data on this date reflect dry weather conditions. Air temperature data were unavailable on this date; overcast skies were accompanied by intermittent rain by the last station. Deciduous tree and shrubs were beginning to bud throughout the watershed.

May 29, 2012 – This mid-spring monitoring event followed a dry period, with no precipitation recorded at the Southbridge climate station from May 24-29. Discharge at area gages decreased during this period. Water quality data reflect dry weather conditions. Air temperature ranged from 70 to 77ºF under sunny and hazy skies. Deciduous trees and shrubs were in full foliage throughout the watershed.

July 25, 2012 – Small storms brought 0.26 in of precipitation to the area from July 20-25. In general, discharge at area gages was low and varied little in this time period (rapid fluctuations were evident at the French River at Webster). Water quality data reflect dry weather conditions. Air temperature ranged from 68 to 75ºF with sunny skies developing to mostly cloudy by the end of monitoring activities.

September 26, 2012 – This early fall monitoring event was preceded by a storm that brought 0.27 in rain to the area on September 23-24. In general, discharge at area gages rose on September 23, then fell below pre-storm levels. Field observations depict low water levels throughout the watershed. Water quality data reflect dry weather conditions. Air temperature ranged from 60 to 67ºF under overcast skies; occasional sprinkles were observed at the second station only (Cady Brook). Deciduous trees and shrubs were beginning to change color; most leaves were still on the branches.

November 14, 2012 – An overnight storm brought 0.30 in precipitation to the area on November 13-14 (as recorded at Southbridge); discharge rose with the input (rapid fluctuations were seen at the Quinebaug River at Quinebaug CT). Water quality data reflect wet weather/runoff weather conditions. The air temperature ranged from 37 to 47ºF under sunny skies. Foliage had changed and most leaves were down in the watershed.

February 27, 2013 – This winter sampling event followed several storms, including an overnight event that brought 0.45 in rain and snow to the area (1.2 in as snow); snow on the ground increased from 2 to 4 in (for climate data, see Table 9). Discharge at area gages generally increased from February 24-27 (rapid fluctuations were seen at the Quinebaug River at Quinebaug, CT). Water quality data reflect wet weather/runoff conditions. Air temperature ranged from 40 to 43ºF with light rain/rain.

Table 9 Climate Conditions at Southbridge, MA from February 22-27, 2013 Parameter Feb 22 Feb 23 Feb 24 Feb 25 Feb 26 Feb 27 Max Temperature (ºF) 1,2 36 33 32 35 38 38 Precipitation (inches as water) 0 0 0.51 0.13 0 0.45 Snowfall (inches) 0 0 0 1.0 0 1.2 Snow on the ground (inches) 3 3 2 2 2 4 1 Data from the Southbridge weather station are available at NOAA Climatological Data Publications (NOAA 2015). 2 Temperature data were not available for the Southbridge station; data from the Worcester station are reported.

April 24, 2013 – A storm event on April 20 brought 0.47 in precipitation to the area, which was followed by a dry period. Discharge at area gages generally decreased from April 20-24 (rapid fluctuations were reported at the

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Quinebaug River at Quinebaug CT gage). Water quality data reflect dry weather conditions. Air temperature ranged from 49 to 61ºF with overcast skies clearing to sunny by mid-monitoring activities. Deciduous trees and shrubs ranged from beginning to bud to flowering.

August 27, 2013 – On this date, only station QR06, Quinebaug River at Quinebaug, CT was sampled. An overnight storm brought 1.05 in of precipitation to the area; discharge at this gage rose. Water quality data reflect wet weather/runoff conditions for this event. The air temperature was 69ºF under overcast skies.

September 23, 2013 – On this date, only station QR06, Quinebaug River at Quinebaug, CT was sampled. This early autumn monitoring event was preceded by a storm that brought 0.66 in precipitation to the area from September 22-23; discharge at this gage rose with the input. Water quality data reflect wet weather/runoff conditions. Air temperature was 55ºF under sunny skies. Deciduous trees and shrubs were just beginning to change color.

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Table 10 French/Quinebaug Basin Precipitation Data Summary 2011-2013* Survey Dates 5 Days 4 Days 3 Days 2 Days 1 Day Sample Wet/Dry** 3/23/2011 0 0 0 0 0.32 0 Wet 4/27/2011 0 0.07 0.54 0 0.06 0 Dry 6/22/2011 0 0.61 0 0 0 0 Dry 8/31/2011 0.98 0 2.55 3.25 0 0 Wet 10/26/2011 0 0 0 0 0.03 0 Dry 1/25/2012 0.15 T 0.21 0 0.21 0 Wet 3/28/2012 0 0 0.02 0.06 0 0 Dry 5/29/2012 0 0 0 0 0 0 Dry 7/25/2012 0 0.08 0 0.02 0.14 0.02 Dry 9/26/2012 0 0 0.21 0.06 0 0 Dry 11/14/2012 0.10 0 0 0 0.04 0.26 Wet 2/27/20163 0 0 0.51 0.13 0 0.45 Wet 4/24/2013 0 0.47 0 0 0 T Dry 8/27/2013*** 0 0 0 0 0 1.05 Wet 9/23/2013*** 0 0 0 0 0.31 0.35 Wet *Official data from the National Weather Service station in Southbridge, MA available at NOAA Climatological Data Publications (NOAA 2015); data reported in inches. **Based on precipitation, streamflow and other relevant data. ***Only Station QR06 was sampled on these dates.

Table 11 USGS Flow Data Summary Discharge for Quinebaug River at Quinebaug, CT 2011-2013* Survey Dates 5 Days 4 days 3 Days 2 Days 1 Day Sample Monthly** Daily*** 3/23/2011 1,630 1,570 1,430 1,350 1,330 1,260 1,280 629 4/27/2011 637 592 626 562 526 499 574.2 438 6/22/2011 310 335 274 230 202 200 319.5 176 8/31/2011 324 390 2,460 2,260 1,160 838 409.6 81 10/26/2011 712 628 590 522 459 445 533.4 199 1/25/2012 313 298 326e 304 403 370 401.4 417 3/28/2012 178 160 148 142 129 129 218.7 590 5/29/2012 139 130 123 114 96 95 190.2 238 7/25/2012 35 31 31 31 31 29 40.5 132 9/26/2012 76 68 69 59 51 46 59.4 119 11/14/2012 163 161 170 187 225 208 171.1 249 2/27/20163 259 237 328 366 348 597 334.2 393 4/24/2013 196 224 200 189 180 158 237.2 445 8/27/2013*** 46 50 38 38 36 46 77.0 82 9/23/2013*** 60 55 52 49 70 80 80.6 167 *Gage # 0112400 data found at Daily mean discharge Quinebaug River at Quinebaug CT (USGS 2015c); data reported in cfs; all data were approved for publication; processing and review completed. **Mean of monthly mean discharge (cfs) based on data collected from 10/1/1931 to 9/30/2010 found at Monthly mean discharge Quinebaug River at Quinebaug CT (USGS 2015h) ***POR= Period of Record, means of daily mean discharge values based on data collected from 10/1/1931 to 9/30/2014 found at Mean of daily mean values at Quinebaug River, Quinebaug, CT (USGS 2015g) 7Q10 = 16.640 cfs @ USGS gaging station, Quinebaug River near Quinebaug, CT (USGS 2015c).

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RESULTS AND QUALITY ASSURANCE/QUALITY CONTROL

The results of SMART monitoring conducted in the French/Quinebaug watershed from 2011 through 2013 are included below. In situ multiprobe readings, including temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, percent oxygen saturation, depth, specific conductivity, and total dissolved solids, are presented for each station in Table 12 through Table 16. Nutrient and chemistry data are presented in Table 17 through Table 21. Most results are expressed as milligrams per liter (mg/L). Exceptions include: depth in meters (m); temperature in degrees Celsius (ºC); pH in Standard Units (SU); conductivity in microsiemens per centimeter (μS/cm); dissolved oxygen saturation in percent (%); and turbidity, in Nephelometric Turbidity Units (NTU).

Field sheets, field notebooks, chain of custody forms, raw data files, lab reports and other metadata are maintained by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) Bureau of Resource Protection (BRP) CEntral Regional Office (CERO) in Worcester, MA and data are stored electronically in the Division of Watershed Management’s (DWM) water quality database. Detailed information regarding the data validation process is explained in the separate document, CN 56.2 Standard Operating Procedure Data Validation and Usability (MassDEP 2005). Specific validation criteria used for 2005-2010 data include, but are not limited to: conformance to the SMART Monitoring Quality Assurance Project Plan (Beaudoin 2008) and DWM standard operating procedures (SOPs), precision, accuracy, representativeness, holding times, sample preservation, frequency of field QC samples, contamination of field blanks, stability of multiprobe readings and documentation. The following data qualifiers were applied as needed:

Multiprobe data qualifiers: ** = Missing data. -- = No data. ## = Censored data (data that have been discarded for some reason). c = Greater than calibration standard used for pre-calibration, or outside the acceptable range about the calibration standard. i = Inaccurate readings from multiprobe likely. m = Method not followed; one or more protocols contained in the DWM Multi-probe SOP not followed. r = Data not representative of actual field conditions. s = Field sheet recorded data were used to accept data, not data electronically recorded in the Multi-probe surveyor unit, due to operator error or equipment failure. u = Unstable readings.

Laboratory sample data qualifiers: ** = Missing data. -- = No data. ## = Censored data (data that have been discarded for some reason). [ ] = A result reported inside brackets has been censored, but is shown for informational purposes. b = Blank contamination in lab reagent blanks and/or field blank samples. d = Precision of field duplicates (as Relative Percent Difference, or RPD) did not meet project data quality objectives identified for program or in QAPP. e = Not theoretically possible. Specifically, used for bacteria data where colonies per unit volume for E. coli bacteria are greater than fecal coliform bacteria. h = Holding time violation (usually indicating possible bias low). j = ‘Estimated’ value; used for lab-related issues where certain lab QC criteria are not met and re-testing is not possible (as identified by the WES lab only). Also used to report sample data where the sample concentration is less than the reporting detection limit (RDL) and greater than the method detection limit (MDL) (RDL > x > MDL). Also used to note where values have been reported at levels less than the MDL. m = Method SOP not followed, only partially implemented or not implemented at all, due to complications with sample matrix (e.g. sediment in sample, floc formation), lab error (e.g. cross-contamination between samples), additional steps taken by the lab to deal with matrix complications, lost/unanalyzed samples, and missing data.

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Table 12 MassDEP SMART 2011-2013. Station QR00. In Situ Multiprobe Data.